(Book review) The Other Side of Beauty: Embracing God’s Vision for Love and True Worth

Reviewed by Jessica Dundas, a Professional Writing Major at Taylor University, Upland, Indiana.

Introduction

Title: The Other Side of Beauty: Embracing God’s Vision for Love and True Worth

Author: Leah Darrow

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Publication Date: Nov. 21, 2017

Format: Paperback Book

Length: 184 pages

OVERVIEW

Leah Darrow challenges our culture’s view of beauty, inviting us to consider God’s view instead. She shows the cost of worldly beauty and how it gives way to false love and a vain pursuit of worth. Having been a former contestant on America’s Next Top Model, she shares her experience, along with a lot of consequent research related to love, relationships, self-esteem, glamour, prestige, and self-image. She shows us how her life parallels that of the Prodigal Son in a search for worldly love and worth, only to come running home empty-handed. And just like the father of the parable, God accepted her back, rejoicing with open arms.

I’ve read several accounts in the past by former models sharing how they left that world for Christ, but this is the best I’ve encountered yet. Her writing is well-researched and relatable, and she tells her story in a vulnerable and transparent way that does not brag nor does it intimidate readers. I was challenged to reconsider my own approach to beauty and my idea of love. Darrow shows how authentic beauty is a reflection of the glory of God. She speaks to the fear, the noise, the pride, and the doubt that scare many women away from seeking a truly beautiful life.

ASSESSMENT

Rating (1 to 5)

5 stars

Suggested Audience

This book is aimed at Christian women, as one woman to another, on the topic of beauty and love.

Christian Impact

The Other Side of Beauty challenges the world’s view of beauty and love, contrasting it with God’s view.

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